What is the Electric Wheel™?
The Electric Wheel™ is a new technology motor (first patented in 1991) that significantly improves and exceeds the net horsepower output of existing electric and fossil fuel motors.

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The Catamaran Company is the exclusive US dealer for this revolutionary product in production-level Lagoons.
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PHONE: 954.727.0016

There are three series of motor systems built on this technology; the ST37, the ST58 and the ST74. They have been designed for use in marine environments. The ST58 combines variable torque converters, brushless motors with Neodymium Iron Boron (NeFe B) magnets, and a powerful regenerative feedback function that converts the motor(s) into a generator of electricity to recharge the batteries while under sail, and provide electrical power to other appliances on the boat.

STI Motors provide boat owners with a combination of features unavailable from traditional propulsion systems, that include:

  • High torque at all times, assuring better control at the helm.
  • Quiet operation
  • Virtually no routine maintenance, no filters, belts or pulleys
  • No air or water pollution from fossil fuels
  • Built-in redundancy
  • Source for additional electrical power for on-board needs.
  • No winterizing required, there by extending the sailing season
  • Design life three times that of a diesel engine
  • Can be configured to be used for de-icing vessels while in the water in winter climates

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How much motoring time does an STI Electric Propulsion system provide?
Straight motoring times for the ST Motors are dependent upon the type of boat, system configuration and sea conditions. The typical 30' sailboat with a ST37 can average 5-6 hours at 4 knots. Boats with gensets significantly extend the range by producing electricity when the batteries are drawn down.

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What size boats are ideal for ST Motor installations?
The ST Motors are currently being installed in mono and multihull boats, ranging in sizes from 27' to 50'. Customized motors can be developed for other sizes and applications.

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How can I have an Electric Wheel™ technology system configured for my boat?
An ST System can be configured for your boat by simply forwarding to Solomon Technologies information regarding your boat (info@catamarans.com)                                                                                                                                         [back to faq]

How long does it take to install?
Standard installations take about 5 days. Additional services such as removal of existing motors, cleaning and repainting engine rooms or installation of new inverters will add a few days.

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Can I install the motor myself?
Owners can perform pre-installation preparation. STI is available to perform the install or your qualified installer can install the system. Please contact us prior to self-install. A detailed installation guide is available. Service shops are being certified by Solomon Technologies to perform installs.

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How much maintenance is needed?
Once the STI Motor is installed, it requires very little maintenance. There are no belts, filters, pulleys or valves on STI Motors. Systems with gensets will need its traditional maintenance.

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Where are ST Motors in use today?
Currently, 24 Electric Wheels, ST 74's and ST 37's are in use or scheduled for installation. STI Motor technology is in use around the world ,in monohull sailboats, multihulls and now power boats and "get home" systems.

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How fast will the ST Motors move my boat?
The STI Motor systems are configured to sustain hull speed. The STI Motor can be used while sailing to increase speed in light winds, and stability in heavy seas.

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Which is more important in selecting a motor: HP or torque?
Both are important. It is important to understand the amount of torque your boat requires and then confirm that a motor has the ability to generate the needed torque. Many measure the power capacity of a motor by its horsepower; the more HP the more power. Horsepower is a measure of energy used to generate torque. Torque is the power resulting in propulsion (measured in foot-pounds). The typical sailboat achieves hull speed with RPM at the prop about 900-1200. It is the job of the motor to generate the RPM at the prop.

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When was the motor developed?
The Electric Wheel™ was first patented in 1991. Solomon Technologies continues to enhance the Electric Wheel™ for marine use and other applications as protected under additional issued and pending international patents. NASA and Carnegie Mellon University continue to support its development.

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How can the STI Motors provide the same or more power than a higher horsepower diesel or gasoline motor?
The 12 horsepower ST74 can outperform a higher horsepower diesel because it delivers 90-94% of its horsepower to the propeller. Typical diesel engines have losses before power is delivered to the propeller as shown:

Table 1 - Parasitic Losses with a typical Diesel Engine VS. An ST74

Unit

ST74

Diesel Engine

Design Power

HP

12

30

Continuous Duty Efficiency Standard

%

90%

80-85%

Net Horsepower Produced

HP

10.8

24

Loss from Typical 100 Amp Alternator when operating

HP

0

4.0

Loss from Raw Water Intake Pump (Cooling Loss)

HP

0

2.0

Loss from Transmission (Reduction Gear)

HP

0

2.0

Loss from refrigeration system if applicable

%

0%

0%

Loss from water heater if applicable

%

0%

0%

Total System Losses

HP

0

14.0

Net Horse Power to the Propeller

HP

10.8

16

These losses are further exacerbated by the typical use of a diesel engine. Maintenance on diesel engines very seldom includes bringing the engine to operating temperatures at least once per week during the life of the engine. Typically, many weeks and in most cases, months will pass between engine start-ups.

When a diesel is not run for extended periods of time, the lubricating oil necessary to prevent damage to the cylinders will work its way to the oil sump at the bottom of the engine. When the engine is started after even a relatively short period (4 weeks), the oil pump must pump oil back to the top of the engine to provide lubrication. This may take 5 to 15 seconds depending on the engine, which is sufficient time to result in scoring of the cylinder walls.

This scoring, over time, will decrease the ability of the cylinders to maintain the high levels of compression necessary in a diesel. Accordingly, over a relatively short period of time, significant power losses occur. These changes are gradual and frequently not noticed until the problem has reached engine failure. This cannot happen with either of the STI Motors.

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How many batteries are needed?
Optimum performance of the STI Motor system is achieved with a 144-volt system. Twelve 12-volt batteries fill this need; Group U2, 27, 31 or 4D batteries are being used.

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Don't the batteries add too much weight to the boat?
The weight of batteries is a consideration, however, in most cases the weight of the old motor and full fuel tank exceeds the weight of the new system. To distribute weight when needed, we use AGM batteries which can be installed throughout the hull (AGM can even be installed effectively on their sides when properly secured). AGM batteries were developed to satisfy demands of F-15 Fighter Jets.

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How long will the batteries last?
The life cycle of batteries is dependent on their use. When properly used, the life cycles of the batteries exceeding five years can be achieved.

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What type of batteries do you use?
Greatest performance success continues to be from absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries. AGM batteries have proven longer life spans than gel or flooded batteries. Additionally, AGM's are fully sealed and emit no dangerous gases. They also have slower discharge rates while inactive, at less than 3% per month of inactivity.

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How long does it take to recharge the batteries?
The batteries can be recharged several ways; a shore charger, genset and/or regeneration from prop.

A shore charger is included. The charger can restore the battery packs to full charge in three-four hours.

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Can solar panels be used to charge the batteries?
Solar panels can only be used to charge source the 12 volt house batteries. They cannot charge the 144 volt battery pack.

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Can wind generators be used to charge the batteries?
Wind can only be used to charge the 12 volt house batteries. They cannot charge the 144 volt battery pack..

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Why does the motor need 144 volts?
The STI Motor System is designed to operate at peak efficiency levels; 144-volts provides optimum performance.

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What size ST Motor do I need?
Like most motors, the STI Motor is available in several sizes, and we will help determine the size to meet requirements. For information call our Sales Team: 954.727.0016.
 Our staff will answer questions, help you match your needs to the right STI Electric Propulsion System and components, and guide you through the sales and pricing agreement. We are dedicated to making your dream of clean, low maintenance, high comfort boating a reality with Solomon Technologies Electric Propulsion Systems. See: Products and Pricing and simply return the completed the request for info to info@catamarans.com.

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Where can I buy an ST System?
ST Systems can be purchased directly through Solomon Technologies or through qualified dealers. For information call ourSales Team:   954.727.0016.
 Our staff will answer questions, help you match your needs to the right STI Electric Propulsion System and components, and guide you through the sales and pricing agreement. We are dedicated to making your dream of clean, low maintenance, high comfort boating a reality with Electric Propulsion Systems. Contactinfo@catamarans.com.

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What maintenance is needed for winterizing?
The ST Motor does not require winterizing. In fact, several owners have used the ST Motors as a de-icing system. The motor running at a low rpm can circulate water around the boat to prevent icing.

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Are fleet purchases available?
Yes, contact info@catamarans.com for fleet purchasing details.

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Can the ST Motors be installed in new boats as they are being built?
Yes, Solomon Technologies can coordinate with your boat builder for an ST Motor install.

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What training is needed to operate the motor?
Training for use of the ST Motor is simplified by the fact that we use most of the same controls you used with your diesel or gasoline motor.

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What new controls do I need?
The e-meter is a new control that will be added to your system. The e-meter provides battery performance and power usage data. The e-meter displays battery capacity in volts, amps in use, amps used and time in hours remaining in the battery bank. Alarms may be set by the user to warn of low power levels.

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Is the system safe?
The ST Motor propulsion system is extremely safe. Safety is important to any propulsion system. Electricity, like gasoline and diesel, can be dangerous. Smart use of any power system is central to safety. We are currently working with the US Coast Guard for system certification.

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Do I need a genset?
Gensets are not required on all installations. However, gensets when used deliver many exciting options for powering on board electronics and appliances. Gensets will provide virtually uninterrupted power supply for entertainment equipment, cooking equipment, PC's, lighting, air conditioning and communications.

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What other applications are available?
Solomon Technologies supports development and licensing of other applications for the Electric Wheel. Currently there are several projects underway. Contact info@catamarans.com for more details.

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Can I convert an outboard motor to an Electric Wheel™ technology?
Solomon Technologies has converted several outboard motors to inboard ST Motor systems. This is especially popular with multihulls.

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How can I use the battery power for other appliances in the boat?
Your new battery bank can be wired to power on-board appliances and other uses. Inverters and a genset may be recommended.

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Can I use my existing prop & shaft?
Be prepared to have your prop and shaft replaced. Often a longer prop shaft is needed, providing the ability to increase the prop size. Larger prop sizes deliver more power and control to the helmsman and serve to regenerate electricity faster.

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How will the STI Electric Propulsion System be serviced?
In the event your electric Propulsion system needs servicing, contact Solomon Technologies. An STI technician or a trained Dealer/Installer in your area can be dispatched.

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What are the warranties?
The ST Motors are warranted for 3 years, Lifeline batteries are warranted for 1/5 years. Lifeline warranties are expressed as years of full coverage and years of pro-rated coverage.

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